On MSNBC's Hardball, host Chris Matthews often heaps scorn on politicians, but signs are growing that he wants to be one of them.
In recent weeks, Matthews has ramped up his exploration of a 2010 campaign, as a Democrat, against Sen. Arlen Specter (R., Pa.). He has discussed the dynamics of a possible run with prominent Democratic fund-raisers, strategists and leaders from across his native Pennsylvania, according to several people who have spoken with Matthews during the last several months. He also is considering buying a house in the state.
| It would help to live there ... |
All the activity has set the political world abuzz but also fueled speculation that Matthews is using his inquiry to gain leverage with MSNBC executives in negotiations for a contract extension.
| If I were those executives I'd wish him well and pledge $50 to his campaign ... |
"He is clearly interested," said Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Hoeffel, a former congressman who was the Democratic nominee against Specter in 2004. Matthews has consulted him twice in the last six weeks.
"I told him his celebrity is a double-edged sword," Hoeffel said. "It gives him name recognition, but when national celebrities come home after many years they run the risk of resentment. . . . He needs to go on a six-month listening tour, spend 2009 getting around Pennsylvania. It would gain him a ton of information and contacts, and demonstrate he's serious." |